Collection Highlight: Medieval Annular Brooch
This small silver brooch in our collection was found in Scartho by a local metal detectorist. Dating from the medieval period, it is an example of an annular brooch.
These small round brooches became popular throughout Europe from the 13th century onwards. Men, women, and children of all social classes wore annular broches. They were both decorative and functional as they were used to fasten clothing such as tunics and cloaks.
Although many plain examples of annual brooches exist, some also contained inscriptions or were inlaid with coloured glass or precious stones. Inscribed on this brooch is ‘INLTMVNITAL’. Although nonsensical, this is possibly a loose version of the phrase ‘I am here in place of a lover’ or perhaps the Latin phrase ‘AMOR VINCIT OMNIA’ (Love Conquers All). It was common in the medieval period for lovers to exchange jewellery as a sign of love, or even as a promise of marriage.
Written By Chloe James
I am the Community Curator at N. E. Lincolnshire Museums Service. My role involves working with the local community to engage them with the museum and ensure they are represented in the museum’s collection. I am particularly interested in history’s untold stories, including those of the working-classes and of women. It is the personal connections between objects and people that fascinate me the most.
If you would like to contribute to the museum’s blog please contact Chloe, our Community Curator, at chloe.james@nelincs.gov.uk